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WILLIAMSBURG — Whitley County Fiscal Court met Tuesday afternoon, covering a range of key topics impacting the community including the approval of a new ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses, setting the 2024 tax rates, and discussions on inter-county collaboration for emergency management.
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the approval of Ordinance 2024-08, which prohibits cannabis business operations within the county. This follows a broader state conversation on cannabis regulation, with Whitley County opting to restrict such business activities at this time.
Judge Executive Pat White Jr. acknowledged Corbin and Williamsburg’s decision to opt-in to medical cannabis within their respective city limits.
On the decision for Whitley County to opt-out, with the deciding factors being the lack of police resources to regulate medical cannabis businesses and the need to keep illegal activity out of Whitley County, White noted, “It’s going to put a lot of strain on our police force.”
In a significant move, the court approved an agreement between Whitley County and Laurel County to merge certain emergency management programs. This agreement is expected to bring cost savings and efficiency improvements by sharing resources, particularly in search and rescue efforts.
Emergency Management Director Jerry Rains highlighted the benefits of collaboration, including shared training, equipment, and response coordination.
The court also declared a 2006 Ford Ranger as surplus property and approved employee pay rates as presented. The sale of the vehicle is part of routine county operations to manage resources effectively.
Several monthly reports were presented, including from the Emergency Management Director, the jailer, and the sheriff.
Sheriff Bill Elliotte provided an update on efforts to modernize the department’s fleet, commenting, “One of the things we’re working on is new computers for our patrol cars.”
The court also ratified signatures for an airport grant from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration. This $100,000 grant will be used to enhance fencing at the Whitley County Airport, addressing concerns about wildlife encroachment and overall safety.
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”}]] WILLIAMSBURG — Whitley County Fiscal Court met Tuesday afternoon, covering a range of key topics impacting the community including the approval of a new ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses, setting the Read More